Skylines & Sunsets

If you want some nice city views of Bangkok, look no further. Here are some of my favourite places to relax and take in the amazing skylines and sunsets the city of angels has to offer.

1. Across Wat Arun: There are a number of bar and restaurants that will give you an absolutely stunning view of Wat Arun by sunset. Navigate the little streets and find the perfect location for you. I’ve been to The Deck, a restaurant with an amazing night view of Wat Arun. If you plan to go here, make sure to call and book well in advance to have the best seat in the house, or you could find yourself seated in a corner indoors (and you certainly do not want that)! Another location is at the top of a little Bed and Breakfast in the area, called The Sala. Head up to the 7th floor (or 6th floor, I forget) and grab a drink or two, and enjoy the amazing view. I’ve been here for Sunrise. It was the most calm and serene Bangkok I’ve experienced my entire life here. I’d recommend waking up for it, if you don’t end up having too rough of a night here (or better yet, stay up all night and make your way here to end the party). It’s worth it. There isn’t a sound to be heard. The city is silent, except for the ones of birds chirping and the fisherman boats cruising along the river. On another note, the whether is actually tolerable in the mornings! The rooftop bar is closed in the morning of course, but if you find a way to sneak up there like I did, its the best view of Bangkok you’ll get, for free. However, these locations can be fairly pricy if you plan to go by sunset or by night. So, if you still want the view and don’t have that much to spend, I’d recommend going to 342, which still gives you an amazing view of the river with Wat Arun in the back-drop.

2. Above Sukhumvit: You won’t get the view of the river here, but you might get a glimpse of it. All rooftops above Sukhumvit will give you beautiful sunsets and views of concrete jungles that make up the heart of Bangkok. It’s definitely a great escape up here, without the noise, pollution, and smell to worry about; so your senses wont be overloaded! However, majority (if not all) of these rooftop bars serve food and drinks at ridiculous prices (blame the rent for it), so be willing to part ways with some cash for a view, because they won’t let you sit up there empty handed! Some of the locations I’ve been to and would suggest are, Octave, which is located in Thonglor area, right at the heart of posh-Bangkok. Another great location in Sukhumvit for a view is Above 11, located in the confused party district of Sukhumvit Soi 11 that combines the feel of Khao Sarn with lavish restaurants and rooftop bars. If you want a free view in Sukhumvit, you’re going to have to spend some time finding it. Try sneaking up some residential condominiums and apartments if you can, and get to the top!

3. Above Siam & Sathorn: This area is considered to be the CBD of Bangkok, and is located quite close to the Chao Praya River. The infamous Sky Bar at Lebua Hotel, Sirocco (where The Hangover was filmed) attracts the most tourists. Now, I haven’t been here myself, but I’ve heard it’s pretty amazing. However, my go-to location for the same (if not very similar) view is at Red Sky at Centara Grand. If you go during 4pm – 6pm on any weekday, they have happy hour, buy one get one free, on the 55th floor! Imagine that. Now, that’s what I call a bargain with a view. If you get there early enough (they open at 4pm), you might even have a chance at grabbing one of their day beds. They only have 5 day beds in total, so make sure to go there as soon as the doors open. Day beds and sangrias (mmmm), the best way to enjoy Bangkok from above in my opinion.